Zella McCoy Blackburn Chaney

January 11, 1933- June 29, 2025

With heavy hearts and profound sadness, we announce the passing of our beloved mother, grandmother, great grandmother and comforter to many. Zella Chaney left this world peacefully on June 29th at the age of 92.

Zella was the heart of our family.  The rock on which our family was built- a hard working and God-fearing woman whose life was defined by unconditional love, endless compassion, especially to those in need, and unwavering kindness to all. She had a rare gift of making everyone feel loved, special and that you truly mattered.  Whether through a warm embrace, a kind word, or a comforting meal at her kitchen table, she gave generously of herself to all those who knew her; even strangers who were down on their luck joined her and her family for meals on Christmas and Thanksgiving. She never turned anyone away who needed a hug, meal or love.

As a mother, she was our guiding light; she was nurturing, patient, and fiercely devoted. Her wisdom and strength carried us through life's challenges, and her laughter and gentleness filled our home with joy and peace. As a grandmother, she was an endless source of love and kindness.  She delighted in making sure her grandchildren knew they were loved through her gentle touch, love and her home cooking.

Zella lived a life of quiet grace and humility, never seeking recognition for her deeds. Her legacy lives on in the love she instilled in her family, the values and warm memories and the countless lives she touched with her generosity and compassion.

Zella was preceded in death by her husbands Paul Chaney and Bill Blackburn; sons Brian Chaney, Paul Chaney Jr. and Herb Chaney; daughter Linda Thompson; son in law Larry Phillips; and grandsons Jacob Gilbert and Corey Chaney.

She is survived by her daughters Jeweleen Phillips, Glenda Faye Chaney, Cathy Chaney, Angela and Greg Little, and her daughter in law Deb Chaney; and her grandchildren, Michael Thompson, Todd Phillips, Storm Thompson, Jason Phillips, Eric Ennis, Amanda Chaney Wilson, and Jordan Chaney; and her ten great grandchildren who will carry her values, love and memories with them forever.

A celebration of life will be held on Sunday, July 6, 2025, at 1:00 p.m. at McCoy Chapel Church; followed by burial in the McCoy Family Cemetery.

Though she may no longer be with us in body, her spirit lives on in every act of kindness, every moment of love and every life she made better simply by being herself.  Her absence will be deeply felt, but her love will guide us forever.

Online condolences may be sent at www.estesfuneralhome.com.

Estes Funeral Home is honored to serve the family of Zella Chaney.